Watch Elton John & Jack White in American Epic Trailer

By: Maura O'Malley

April 19, 2017

Have you ever thought about how sound’s recorded? We may have just the thing for you. Jack White, Robert Redford, and T. Bone Burnett executive produced a three-part documentary, American Epic, all about America’s first attempts at recording music. (Is there anything Jack White can’t do?)

As producer Allison McGourty puts it, “American Epic is, to me, about the first time America heard itself.” Find out a little bit more about the documentary series in the preview below.

As for modern music, The American Epic Sessions—the accompanying film—will use a rebuilt version of the original recording mechanism featured in the documentary series. On it, several artists will record their own music, including Elton John, Beck, Willie Nelson, The Avett Brothers, Alabama Shakes,Nas, and Jack White. Naturally, White’s Third Man Records will be releasing some of the series’ music on vinyl.

Making its premiere at Sundance, the three-part doc will make its television debut May 16 on PBS stateside and BBC across the pond. American Epic Sessions is set to air June 6 on PBS.